The jet split in two when it crashed in mountains shortly at around 10pm local time (3am UK time), shortly before it was due to land.

There were 72 passengers and nine crew on board the charter plane, which was taking the 22-man squad to the Copa Sudamericana final against Atletico Nacional.

Police commander José Acevedo told local media 74 people died at the scene and one person on their way to hospital.

Real Madrid observed a minute of silence for the victims of the crash (Photo: EPA)

Barcelona followed suit before their own training session on Tuesday (Photo: Twitter/FCBarcelona)

Madrid face Barcelona on Saturday (Photo: REUTERS)

There were just six survivors - one of whom was found alive in the wreckage by rescue crews.

In a statement on its website the club said it was still unsure how many of its players and staff had survived.

The plane is said to have split in two when it crashed

Haunting images of club memorabilia have emerged from the crash site

A spokesman said: “Given the conflicting reports emerging from different journalistic sources concerning the crash of the plane carrying the Chapecoense players, the Chapecoense football association through it vice-president, Ivan Tozzo, is refraining from comment and awaiting official announcements from the Colombian air authorities.

England captain Wayne Rooney tweeted: "Sad news to wake up to today. Thoughts are with @ChapecoenseReal and their family and friends."

Spanish side Sevilla said: "Sevilla FC shows is shows its condolences for the plane crash involving Chapecoense. Hard times for football."

The Brazilian Football Confederation said: "The CBF expressed its dismay at the news coming from Colombia, realizing an accident with the plane carrying the delegation the Chapecoense, journalists and guests, the way the first game of the final of the Copa Sudamericana.

"We are in contact with the Conmebol, local representatives and clubs in search of more information authorities before any possible measures on the progress of Brazilian football.

"Already, we express our solidarity and we direct our prayers to the passengers and crew of the flight.

As a mark of respect, CONMEBOL, South America's football governing body has suspended football on the continent until further notice.

The Brazilian government has announced three days of mourning across the country.